Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease in the United States, affecting about 18.2 million Americans. At the office of Dr. Sandeep Singh, MD, diagnostic testing is available on-site to identify coronary artery disease before complications like a heart attack occur. Dr. Singh and the cardiology team offer several treatment strategies for coronary artery disease, including lifestyle changes, medications, and surgery. They also provide preventive resources to protect your overall cardiovascular health. Call the Greenville or Mesquite, Texas, office to schedule a consultation or book an appointment online today. 

What is coronary artery disease?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) develops when plaque builds up on the walls of the coronary arteries. These arteries supply blood to your heart and the rest of your body.

Cholesterol and other substances form the plaque that collects on the artery walls. Plaque can harden over time and cause narrowing in the blood vessels that limits blood flow to the heart, a condition known as atherosclerosis.

Dr. Singh and the cardiology team use advanced diagnostic technologies to evaluate the function of your heart. They personalize care plans to treat atherosclerosis and prevent coronary artery disease complications like heart attack.

Does coronary artery disease cause symptoms?

Symptoms of coronary artery disease may not occur until your arteries are narrow enough to block blood flow to your heart and body. Without sufficient blood flow, you may experience a heart attack before you get a CAD diagnosis.

Potential warning signs of a heart attack include:

• Chest pressure or pain
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Arm or shoulder pain

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital or call 911.

You can schedule preventive testing at the office of Dr. Sandeep Singh, MD, if you have risk factors for coronary artery disease such as a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, weight challenges, or a family history of heart disease.

Dr. Singh and the cardiology team offer a range of diagnostic tests, including electrocardiogram (EKG), echocardiogram, and cardiac MRI, to evaluate the function and health of your heart.

How is coronary artery disease treated?

Initially, your treatment plan for coronary artery disease focuses on quitting smoking, getting more exercise, and eating a heart-healthy diet to prevent the condition from worsening.

Your provider may also prescribe medications to lower your cholesterol and blood pressure or blood thinners to prevent blood clots.

If your coronary arteries are blocked, the team may recommend angioplasty. During angioplasty, your surgeon inserts a thin catheter into the blocked vessel and inflates a tiny balloon to widen the artery so blood can flow freely. They may also place a stent to keep the artery open.

Call the office of Dr. Sandeep Singh, MD, near you to schedule a coronary artery disease consultation or book an appointment online today.